Lakeland Mills explosion: WorkSafeBC fines company $724k

Penalties imposed on Prince George company after violations identified

A large fire burns at the Lakeland Mills sawmill in Prince George, B.C., on Tuesday April 24, 2012. An explosion rocked the sawmill just before 10 p.m. local time setting off a fire that engulfed the facility. (Andrew Johnson/The Canadian Press)

In a news release Tuesday, WorkSafeBC said Lakeland Mills Ltd. was in violation of the Workers Compensation Act, as well as health and safety regulations.

Responding to the fines now imposed by WorkSafe BC, company president Greg Stewart said in a statement, "Lakeland Mills just received the inspection report and order this morning. It will take some time to review the information.

"Only then will we be in a position to respond to WorksafeBC’s allegations."

The fine was made up of an administrative penalty of $97,000, as well as a claims cost levy of $626,663.28. In the detailed report of how the fines were costed, WorkSafeBC noted the total claims cost that fell within the scope of the act was $5,221,136.48.

To encourage thoughtful and respectful conversations, first and last names will appear with each submission to CBC/Radio-Canada's online communities (except in children and youth-oriented communities). Pseudonyms will no longer be permitted.

By submitting a comment, you accept that CBC has the right to reproduce and publish that comment in whole or in part, in any manner CBC chooses. Please note that CBC does not endorse the opinions expressed in comments. Comments on this story are moderated according to our Submission Guidelines. Comments are welcome while open. We reserve the right to close comments at any time.

Note: The CBC does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. By submitting your comments, you acknowledge that CBC has the right to reproduce, broadcast and publicize those comments or any part thereof in any manner whatsoever. Please note that comments are moderated and published according to our submission guidelines.